Springfield's 'open enrollment' hits record level

Springfield parents and students are exercising open enrollment at record levels.

At least one out of every five Springfield students — or 5,086 — attended a school other than the one they were zoned to attend, based on their address, during the 2013-14 school year.

That's up from just over 1,800 students transfers in 2002.

Associate Superintendent Ben Hackenwerth said open enrollment, which gained momentum locally in the 1980s and was reaffirmed by the school board about a decade ago, is a different type of choice.

"As a whole, we are a district of choice," he said.

Hackenwerth stressed that the transfers aren't always tied to specific programs. But growth in "choice" programs has certainly helped.

Other reasons for a transfer typically include family convenience (close to work or child care), access to technology, participation in an extracurricular program or a desire to stay in a school even after a family moves elsewhere in the district.

"It's a case-by-case basis," he said. "Many are personal reasons."

Short application forms are available at every school building. Parents are encouraged to turn in forms at the schools where they hope to enroll their child.

The district has long allowed parent-request transfers where there is space available and the move doesn't require additional staffing and funding. The approval process can take days, so parents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Transfers are generally open to any child, although some special programs, such as the International Baccalaureate, may have specific requirements. There may also be limited space available.

The option of transferring carries some additional responsibilities. Parents must agree to provide, or arrange for, transportation. And to remain in the transfer school, students are required to maintain good behavior, attendance and academic progress.

Christine Jones, specialist of choice and innovation for the district, said families can explore schools and programs that best fit the child's learning style.

"We have great things going on across our district. Choice and innovation (programs) aren't the only place where creativity can be unleashed," Jones said. "It's giving students the option so they can find that passion, follow that interest, that really makes learning personal for them."